A. Mira Gunawansa
PhD
Sociology
Mira Gunawansa is a PhD candidate in Sociology at the University of Melbourne. Her research examines the intersection of gender, migration, and culture through the framework of the Mental Load, exploring how these dynamics shape caregiving, equity, and belonging for South Asian migrant mothers.
Alongside her doctoral research, Mira teaches in sociology, anthropology, and gender studies. She has worked as Research and Project Manager for the University’s Gender Equity Initiative, contributing to projects on caregivers’ rights in the Victorian Public Sector and employment pathways for women seeking asylum. She has also assisted in the decolonisation of curriculum in the Master of Social Policy and held several research assistant roles across the University.
Mira holds a Master of Development Studies with First Class Honours and a Bachelor of Arts in Politics and International Studies from the University of Melbourne. Guided by principles of inclusion, intersectionality, and decolonisation, her work is committed to advancing women’s empowerment and social justice.
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Thesis
Understanding the Mental Load of Migrant Mothers
This research examines the often-overlooked "Mental Load" of mothers, which involves the mental, emotional, and organizational tasks essential for managing family life. While this concept is well-established, existing studies have primarily focused on certain demographic groups, neglecting the experiences of migrant mothers and those from diverse cultural backgrounds. The goal of this study is to explore how the Mental Load affects mothers from various backgrounds, with a particular focus on migrant mothers. By amplifying underrepresented voices, this research aims to provide a more inclusive understanding of motherhood, contributing to a broader, more nuanced perspective on family life.
Research interests
- Gender equity
- Migration
- Decolonization
- Intersectionality
- Policy analysis